Top 7 Must-Visit Dive Sites in Koh Tao

Koh Tao is a diving hub in the Gulf of Thailand globally known for its scuba diving sites and affordable scuba diving courses. The island has massive underwater granite pinnacles, fringing coral reefs, and wrecks, making it an ideal training ground for all certification levels. 

Water temperature remains between 28°C and 30°C, and, depending on the season, visibility ranges from 10 m to 30 m.

The island’s ecosystem supports over 200 species of hard and soft corals and more than 350 recorded species of fish. High-value sightings include pelagic giants such as the whale shark (Rhincodon typus) and great barracuda, alongside resident populations of Green and Hawksbill sea turtles.

This article shares the top 7 Koh Tao dive sites to experience the region’s most diverse underwater topographies.

1. Sail Rock

Sail Rock always gets the top spot for diving in Koh Tao. This isolated granite pinnacle rises from a sandy bottom at 40 m to approximately 8 m above the surface. Located in the open ocean, Sail Rock is most famous for a geological feature known as “The Chimney,” a vertical natural swim-through. Enter at a depth of 5 m, descend, and exit at either 12 m or 18 m.

You can expect massive schools of Chevron Barracuda, Bigeye Trevally, and Queenfish. It is also the primary hotspot for Whale Shark encounters in the region. Sail Rock in Koh Tao is ideal for intermediate to advanced divers.

• Maximum Depth: 40 m
• Location: 45 km south-southeast of Koh Tao
• Key Biological Feature: Massive schools of pelagic fish and hard coral-covered walls
• Target Species: Whale Sharks, Bigeye Trevally, and Chevron Barracuda

2. Chumphon Pinnacle

Chumphon Pinnacle is a massive granite formation consisting of one primary pinnacle and several smaller surrounding rock clusters. It is a preferred location for Advanced Open Water training and deep-diving specialties as it begins at a depth of 14 m and drops to a sandy floor at 35 m–40 m.

You should be prepared for varying conditions as the site is susceptible to moderate currents.

• Maximum Depth: 35–40 m
• Location: 11 km offshore (Northwest)
• Key Biological Feature: Massive Sea Anemone colonies
• Target Species: Giant Groupers, Batfish, and Whale Sharks

3. HTMS Sattakut

The HTMS Sattakut was decommissioned and sunk in 2011 to create an artificial reef. The keel of this 48-meter-long vessel rests at a maximum depth of 30 m, and the top of the bridge rises to approximately 18 m. It features two primary 76 mm cannons located at the bow and stern. This dive site is ideal for Advanced Open Water and Nitrox divers.

• Maximum Depth: 30 m
• Location: West of Koh Tao (near Sairee Beach)
• Key Feature: 48 m long former naval vessel with intact cannons
• Target Species: Giant Groupers, Snappers, and Sweetlips

4. Southwest Pinnacle

Southwest Pinnacle consists of a series of limestone peaks ranging in depth from 4 m at the shallowest point to over 30 m at the sandy bottom. It is known for its jagged rock formations and narrow canyons. This dive site is ideal for intermediate to advanced divers.

• Maximum Depth: 30 m+
• Location: 13 km Southwest of Koh Tao
• Key Feature: A series of seven jagged limestone pinnacles
• Target Species: Leopard Sharks, Barracuda, and large Sea Fans

5. White Rock

Situated on the western side of the island, White Rock is one of the largest dive sites by area in Koh Tao. The site consists of two large granite shelves with a wide coral garden stretching between them. Depths range from a shallow plateau at 5 m to a maximum of 22 m at the sandy perimeter. It should be your first choice for night diving in Koh Tao. White Rock is good for all skill levels.

• Maximum Depth: 22 m
• Location: 2 km off the west coast of Koh Tao
• Key Feature: Large expansive coral shelf and massive granite boulders
• Target Species: Titan Triggerfish, Great Barracuda, and Hawksbill Turtles

6. Shark Island

This small island features a shallow reef on the northern side and a deeper, more rugged descent on the southern side. It is best known for the abundance of purple soft corals found between 12 m and 18 m. Shark Island is perfect for intermediate divers.

• Maximum Depth: 24 m
• Location: 800 m southeast of Koh Tao
• Key Feature: Unique purple soft coral gardens and sloping reef
• Target Species: Titan Triggerfish, Hawksbill Turtles, and Blue-spotted Ribbontail Rays

7. Mango Bay

Located on the northern tip of the island, Mango Bay is a shallow, sheltered bay, perfect for beginners. It is known for its large sandy floor and fringing reefs on both sides. The depths, ranging from 2 m to 15 m, make it the best dive site for Try and Open Water courses. Conditions are calm, and the white sandy bottom reflects light, making it perfect for underwater photography. Mango Bay is also perfect for snorkeling.

• Maximum Depth: 15 m
• Location: Approximately 5 km North of Mae Haad Pier
• Key Feature: Sheltered bay with high light penetration and calm conditions
• Target Species: Seahorses, Mushroom Corals, and Jenkins Whipray